Birmingham has a lot to offer tourists, from cultural and historical landmarks to scenic natural spots and family-friendly attractions. The city is also packed with restaurants, cafes, and pubs that are popular with both locals and visitors alike. But it’s not just the delicious food and drinks that people appreciate; for many venues, the real highlight is the live music. Read more at birmingham-trend.
Why Are Live Music Venues So Popular?
The main draw of live music venues is their unique atmosphere. A live performance can evoke a wide range of feelings and emotions. It’s fascinating how the same piece of music can be interpreted differently by two people listening side-by-side. Many enjoy the pleasant feeling that lingers after a performance; it can boost your mood, help you relax, and allow you to forget your troubles.
Furthermore, many of the performers in Birmingham are local musicians, so visiting a live music venue is a great way to connect with the region’s culture and traditions. Gigs often include a varied programme and interaction with the audience, ensuring visitors have a fun time in good company.
You can find live music venues in all parts of Birmingham, though most are concentrated in the city centre. Here is a selection of highly-rated spots that are popular with both locals and tourists.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre is a popular pub located in the heart of Birmingham. Its building is a Grade II listed architectural landmark. It’s an atmospheric, historic pub that many tourists make a point of visiting, as it introduces guests to British traditions, gastronomy, and culture.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre houses a studio theatre where local artists and musicians perform. The schedule of events is posted in advance and can be found on the venue’s official website. The pub is also famous for its live music, hosting musicians from various genres and styles. As a result, it has become a favourite spot for many of Birmingham’s music lovers.
Regulars often comment on the friendly and hospitable staff, who strive to create a cosy atmosphere. The Old Joint Stock is a popular choice for couples on a date, families with children, and groups of friends. It can also serve as a venue for a business meeting—just be sure to book a table in a quiet, secluded part of the pub in advance.
The Jam House
This is a restaurant with a huge concert stage that hosts significant musical events. For instance, it’s a key venue during the annual “Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival.” The Jam House is renowned as an establishment that combines live music, good food, and a great atmosphere. Located in the Jewellery Quarter, near St Paul’s Square, it’s a popular spot for tourists exploring the city.
The Jam House can hold over 500 people, making its rooms a popular choice for weddings and other functions. These events often feature live music, so the venue’s concert stage comes in very handy.
The music programme at The Jam House is planned a month in advance. Here, you can discover talented young performers as well as successful, long-established bands. For example, the restaurant hosts a monthly “Acoustic Sessions” showcase, introducing new talent from Birmingham and its surroundings. Aspiring musicians often contact The Jam House administration themselves, as performing on its popular stage is a chance to make a name for themselves and test their skills.
Actress & Bishop
The Actress & Bishop is a Birmingham pub that transforms into one of the liveliest spots in the city by night. It’s a popular haunt for music lovers who enjoy live performances and want to dive into the vibrant nightlife of a big city. The venue hosts both local and touring musicians. Next to the stage is a huge dance floor that quickly fills up with people looking to have a fun and active night out. Visitors often talk about the electrifying, high-energy atmosphere created by the live music.
The Actress & Bishop also organises:
- Christmas parties;
- Birthdays and other celebrations;
- Corporate events;
- Other special occasions.
The venue knows what music its patrons like. You’ll often see guitar-led bands, including many up-and-coming artists. The schedule lets you know when to expect a night of rock, heavy metal, or pop music.
The pub’s programme also includes regular events. For instance, every Sunday they host the “Actress & Bishop Blues Club,” an evening of jazz and blues.
The Sunflower Lounge
This is a small bar located in central Birmingham. Its basement houses a concert space, making it an ideal spot for live music gigs. The Sunflower Lounge first opened its doors in 2002 and, over the years, has hosted thousands of Birmingham-based and visiting musicians, including big names like The Amazons, Royal Blood, and Dua Lipa.
New talent often appears on the stage at The Sunflower Lounge, with musicians from all over Birmingham and nearby towns coming here to make their mark. The venue’s audience is typically receptive to new creative work, which gives budding musicians the confidence and desire to keep developing.
In terms of drawbacks, some visitors have pointed out the level of service, writing in comments and reviews that the bar staff can be less than friendly and polite. The management of The Sunflower Lounge assures that they are addressing this issue. However, when it comes to the live music—the reason most people visit—its quality remains top-notch.
Pitcher & Piano
Pitcher & Piano is one of Birmingham’s top venues and a favourite among locals. Good live music has become its calling card. You can enjoy it from a table in the main hall or out on the terrace. Pleasant music accompanies guests who drop in for their morning coffee. In the evening, the music changes, the lights are dimmed, and the atmosphere becomes completely different. Visitors often remark that stopping by in the morning and then again in the evening feels like visiting two different places.
Guests also highlight other advantages of Pitcher & Piano:
- Varied Menu. It includes dishes for brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as light snacks and desserts. You can stop by for a cup of coffee, a full meal, or a business dinner.
- Bar Selection. The range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks caters to every taste. Visitors to Pitcher & Piano also praise the exclusive signature cocktails available at the bar.
- Special Offers. For example, on weekends, they invite everyone for two hours of bottomless drinks. You just need to order a brunch dish, pay a fixed price, and enjoy your favourite Prosecco or other beverages.
